Disciples of the Gospel - Viviers
The Disciples of the Gospel, established in Viviers, Ardèche, since 2010, welcome you by offering experiences that foster encounter with Jesus and his Gospel, give value to daily life, and open you to encountering others, inspired by the way of life of Charles de Foucauld. These retreats foster welcoming and caring encounters. The location in Viviers also offers the opportunity to explore the surrounding nature and enjoy the cultural activities of the region.
Retreats organized by the community
A brief history of the Disciples of the Gospel
The adventure of the Disciples of the Gospel has existed since 1973!
Starting in 2007, the sisters joined the Charles de Foucauld Spiritual Family Association, which brings together twenty groups of religious, priests, and laypeople. Currently, they live in thirteen fraternities.
The Disciples of the Gospel experience encounter with Jesus and his Gospel through listening to the word of God and prayer, like Charles de Foucauld who spent his life imitating him as closely as possible.
They also attach value to daily life by living the "little life of Nazareth," the life chosen and lived by Jesus for 30 years. This means finding value in the little things of everyday life, recognizing that daily life offers opportunities to encounter God in life's simple actions. Through these small gestures, we can beautify life, this allows us to realize that we are already preceded by goods and by good relationships that spread God's love.
Finally, they believe in the importance of encounters, following the example of Charles de Foucauld who wanted to be seen as a universal brother. They seek to create open fraternities where everyone feels welcomed, regardless of social status, belief, or age. Each encounter is seen as a mutual friendship where welcome is not one-way, but where each person can also care for others.
Introduction to the Ardèche community
The sisters have been established in Viviers, Ardèche, since 2010. This is the first fraternity opened abroad. It is a Foucauldian place because it houses the chapel of the diocesan house "Charles de Foucauld" (former seminary) where he was ordained a priest on June 9, 1901.
The fraternity aspires to be a welcoming presence and a place of fraternal prayer shared with all those who wish to participate. In certain rooms, the archives of Saint Charles de Foucauld are preserved, including his manuscripts and some objects that belonged to him.
By preserving this precious material, the goal is to make known the figure of Charles de Foucauld, his spirituality, and to seek to actualize his message, namely to build simple and fraternal relationships focused on encountering the other!
What to expect during your stay
Living a time of spiritual retreat in Viviers
In Viviers, give yourself time to care for your interior life: listen and take time in silence as well as moments of sharing to exchange.
The sisters offer to mutually enrich each other with the richness of the other and to provide spiritual guidance to dialogue, at any age, about one's personal journey and questions.
The sisters invite you to participate in the life of the community by helping with small manual tasks (depending on the season): vegetable garden, various organizing tasks, etc., but also by going to visit sick people or those who are alone!
Ideal conditions for a time of calm in Ardèche (07)
The hospitality offered by the fraternity is in a house, on the 2nd floor, accessible by elevator. You will find on site:
- The oratory as well as the chapel where communal prayer times are held, open to all
- Spiritual books available
- An outdoor park you can enjoy
Meals are shared with the community!
Geography and activities
Places and activities around Viviers in Ardèche (07220)
The region around Viviers offers a variety of activities to enrich your spiritual retreat with the Disciples of the Gospel. Explore nature through numerous hiking trails, or opt for a peaceful bike ride along the Via Rhôna. For a sensory experience, participate in tastings of local wines or embark on a water adventure by canoe or kayak.
If you're looking for more dynamic activities, you can try rock climbing with the via ferrata or test your agility with a tree climbing session.
Viviers is also a city with exceptional heritage, offering a cultural getaway with its Saint Vincent Cathedral classified as a historic monument as well as striking panoramas.
Nearby, discover Alba la Romaine and its Roman theater, explore the picturesque streets of Rochemaure, or visit the Chauvet Cave in Vallon Pont d'Arc, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For panoramic views, head to La Garde Adhémar, a charming typical village, or visit Aiguebelle Abbey.
Finally, take the opportunity to discover the surroundings with excursions to Montélimar, famous for its nougat, to Valence. Or explore the iconic cities of Lyon and Avignon, each offering unique cultural richness. The diversity of available activities will enrich your spiritual retreat with varied and memorable experiences.
Practical information
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